This Taste for Silence (Uqp Short Fiction) Paperback – 21 Feb. 2020

“V.S. Pritchett's definition of a short story is 'something glimpsed from the corner of the eye, in passing.' Notice the 'glimpse' part of this. First the glimpse. Then the glimpse gives life, turned into something that illuminates the moment and may, if we're lucky — that word again — have even further ranging consequences and meaning."This is a quote by Raymond Carver. It comes to mind after reading Amanda O'Callaghan's 'This Taste for Silence'. She really is a master of the form.

Like a secret tray beneath the bottom tray of a master chocolatier's special selection, these jewel-like yet disconcerting stories are a rich and luxurious indulgence: alluringly plump and delicious yet frosted with a tangy dusting of dark and bitter secrets. Be sure to relish each and every one of them, from the short to the shorter. Imbibe them prudently, reserve them for special treats. The box will soon be empty - long before you are prepared for it to be...

The human condition is exposed in clever writing. The tales kept me wondering, long after I finished them about the characters and our brief but telling glimpse into their lives.